The National Park Service (NPS) and the National Park Foundation invite everyone to get to know their national parks during National Park Week. This year’s dates are April 20 to 28, with free admission to all national parks April 22 to 26.

“This year’s theme, 'Did you know …' provides a fun way to discover the wonders of America’s national parks,” said National Park Service Director Jonathan B. Jarvis.

For example, Jarvis said:

Did you know that there are national parks in 49 of 50 states?

Did you know that national parks include seashores, battlefields and historic homes?

Did you know that the country’s highest peak, lowest point, tallest tree, deepest lake and longest cave are in national parks?

Did you know that you probably live within an hour or two of a national park?

According to NPS press release, National Park Week is a great time for all Americans to visit a nearby national park to camp and hike, watch wildlife, stroll a Civil War battlefield.

The annual celebration includes special events such as Junior Ranger Day on April 20 and Earth Day on April 22. Find a list of ranger-led programs and plan your adventures at www.nationalparkweek.org. {loadpositionEndBlurbMostRecentNews}